A pilot project deploying a transporting ambulance north of Sault Ste. Marie has resulted in improved efficiency for Paramedic Services. For approximately eight months, Sault Ste. Marie Paramedic Services has operated a traditional ambulance staffed by two paramedics from the Goulais Fire & Rescue Station as part of the Sault North pilot project.

The pilot builds on a model in place since 2020, when Paramedic Services began deploying a Personal Response Unit (PRU) in the area. While the PRU allowed a paramedic to begin providing care, it could not transport patients. By replacing the PRU with a transporting ambulance and two-paramedic crew, the responding team can now provide care and transport patients when required.

Results showed improved resource efficiency, with average paramedic time per call decreasing from 98.6 minutes to 77.8 minutes (a reduction of 20.8 minutes per call). This helps keep other paramedic resources available to respond to calls across the area.

While the results have been positive, the existing space at the Goulais Fire & Rescue Station is not sufficient for a permanent ambulance and crew. DSSAB will continue to consider the infrastructure and operational requirements needed for a sustainable long-term model.

In the interim, Paramedic Services has recommended continuing the Sault North transporting ambulance deployment for as long as it can be accommodated at the existing location.